Marywood Alumni Reunite during Reunion Weekend

Marywood Alumni Reunite during Reunion Weekend

More than 400 alumni visited Marywood University's campus last month to celebrate "Reunion Weekend"—an annual gathering where generations of alumni have the opportunity to meet and mingle, reconnect and re-engage.

Mary Tracy, a graduate of the Class of 1963, who is also a retired Director of Marywood's Alumni Office, attended the weekend-long event. She was eager to discuss her relationship with the University after many decades.

"Fifty years ago Marywood gave us many things," she says. "Our college years gave us something infinitely precious: we found each other and became longtime, close friends."

One of Tracy's classmates, Cheryl D'Andrea Lottman, echoed her sentiment.

"It is always a pleasure to be back on campus," she says. "The best part is being with fellow classmates to share memories and reminisce."

Through a class wide effort, the Class of 1963 raised $139,000, with $110,000 being committed to the Learning Commons in honor of their 50th reunion.

Attendees had the opportunity to attend class parties, an alumni awards luncheon, a clambake, and more.

According to Leon John, director of alumni development, who coordinated the weekend's events, even an unexpected power outage did not dampen the celebratory spirit.

"Some buildings temporarily lost power over the weekend," John says, "but that did not impact the festivities. Many people approached me afterward to commend the staff on their good work. Everyone pulled together to make sure everything ran smoothly."

John also notes that this year's Reunion Weekend was also one of the most popular; more than 90 alumni from multiple classes volunteered to help organize the event, which resulted in a 14 percent increase in attendance.

Finally, the excitement generated by Reunion Weekend continues, John says. The spirit of cooperation has sparked interest, prompting alumni to become more involved. A large committee has already formed and has begun planning next year's event.